The Isoto Community in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State defied several hours of torrential rainfall on Saturday to celebrate the second edition of Isoto Day, a festival dedicated to promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among the diverse groups living in the area.
Despite heavy downpour from dawn till around 2:00 p.m., the vibrant event drew residents and well-wishers from various parts of Lagos. Held at the palace of the community’s traditional ruler, High Chief Moshood Nosiru, the celebration featured cultural displays, traditional dances, drumming, singing, and masquerade performances.
The traditional ruler, High Chief Nosiru, said the celebration—first held in June 2024—was initiated to foster harmony among the community’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious population.
“Nigerians from various tribes including Igbo, Urhobo, Hausa, Bini, Fulani, Isoko, Igala, Idoma, and Yoruba live here peacefully,” he said. “Also, Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers coexist in harmony. Peace and unity remain crucial for any society’s progress.”
Nosiru added that Isoto Day would now be marked annually to sustain the community’s spirit of inclusiveness and growth.
The Chairman of Ifesowapo Community Development Association (CDA), Mr. Ibidapo Bankole, commended the unity in Isoto and urged other communities across Lagos and Nigeria to adopt similar initiatives. He also appealed to the Lagos State Government to improve road infrastructure in the area to boost commercial activities.
Similarly, Mr. Okedara Israel, Chairman of Iderawole CDA, called for the establishment of public junior and secondary schools as well as a primary healthcare center in Isoto to better serve its estimated population of over 70,000.
A Delta State indigene and long-time resident, Mr. Augustine Onoro, praised the traditional ruler’s leadership, describing him as a youth who governs with passion and openness to advice. “He has shown that young people can lead effectively if given the chance,” Onoro noted, while urging youths to prepare themselves for leadership roles.
Also speaking, Mr. Michael Ogunleye, a retired staff of the Lagos State Local Government Service Commission, encouraged Nigerians to embrace one another, regardless of ethnic or religious differences, to build a stronger, more united nation.